OscailtIndymedia IrelandAll the latest news posted to Indymedia Ireland's open publishing newswire. Indymedia Ireland is a collectively run media outlet for the creation of radical, accurate, and passionate tellings of the truth, offering grassroots, non-corporate coverage of Irish news and events.2018-03-18T18:56:05+00:00Indymedia Irelandimc-ireland@lists.indymedia.iehttp://www.indymedia.ie/atomfullpostshttp://www.indymedia.ie/graphics/feedlogo.gifAFRIN: AFTER ETHNIC CLEANSING NOW TURKISH “PLANTATION”http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065502018-03-18T18:56:05+00:00séamas carrahercultureofliberation@gmail.comTurkey is conducting a policy of “demographic change” in the Afrin area despite denials by the regime in Ankara.<em>“Once we have purged the terrorists (from Afrin) we will then cleanse them from Manbij, Ayn al-Arab, Tal Abyad, Ra’s al-Ayn and Qamishli,” </em>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan<br />
<br />
As part of the colonisation of Ireland in the 16th and 17th-centuries, the country witnessed the confiscation of its land by the English crown and the settling of this land with settlers from the island of Great Britain. This was to result in ongoing conflict, hatred, violence and war right down to the present day in the northern part of Ireland.<br />
<br />
It seems now, since the beginning of the Turkish incursion into the Democratic Federation of Northern Syria (Rojava – “one of the only islands of democracy in a sea of Middle Eastern despotism“) similar concerns have been expressed at the intent of the Turkish State and in particular its President Recep Tayyip Erdo&#287;an in relation to his Kurdish neighbours.<br />
<br />
From day one, talk of ethnic cleansing and demographic change featured high on the list of reasons for the Turkish military invasion.<br />
<br />
Since the capture of a number of villages in recent weeks, Kurdish sources have issued numerous statements confirming that this process has begun and warning the international community of the dangers facing the people if Turkey is not encouraged to withdraw to its own borders.<br />
<br />
The <strong>YPG Command </strong>in the Afrin region recently said:<br />
<br />
“One of the most attention-grabbing practices is the settlement of families of the gangs that act with the invading Turkish state and the Turkmens brought in from Atme, Azaz, Turkey and Iraq in the regions of Shiye and Jindires. This is a clear manifestation of the practice of demography change in the region that fascist Erdo&#287;an had spoken of before, during the initial invasion attacks.”<br />
<br />
Earlier, in a communication to the Reuters Press Agency<br />
<br />
<strong>Redur Xelil,</strong> the head of foreign relations in the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), said Turkey was conducting a policy of “demographic change” in the area despite denials by the regime in Ankara.<br />
<br />
“The Turkish government is settling Turkmen and Arab families in the villages of Afrin that it occupied after forcing out its people and is distributing the belongings of the people of Afrin to the new settlers,”<br />
<br />
<strong>Shahoz Hassan</strong>, co-president of the Executive Body of the Democratic Federation of Northern Syria’s Movement for a Democratic Society (TEV-DEM), in an interview with Rudaw, the Iraqi Kurdish News Agency, echoes the allegations that Turkey is attempting to “change the demography of Afrin.”<br />
<br />
“They bring in some civilians, who are affiliated to them, and place them in those villages. They rush in this regard so that they make demographic change a reality.”<br />
<br />
<strong>Christian Concerns</strong><br />
<br />
“Turkey has already ‘cleared’ villages of Yazidis, Kurds, Christians and others, promising to replace them with Syrian refugees. In fact, Afrin already has enlarged its population by 50 percent to house (internally displaced) Syrians, who are among those being killed, injured or captured,” two Christian activists, Bassam Ishak and Lauren Homer, said:<br />
<br />
“Turkey has committed war crimes and ethnic cleansing already in Afrin and the Federation of Northern Syria…”<br />
<br />
Ishak heads the Syriac National Council and is a member of the political bureau of the Syrian Democratic Council, the political wing of the Syrian Democratic Forces.<br />
<br />
Lauren Homer, is a Washington, D.C. based international human rights lawyer.<br />
<br />
<strong>Memories of ISIS</strong><br />
<br />
Concern has also being raised at the FSA groups currently being placed in the frontline of the Turkish military assault with many of them having been identified as either originating from or being connected to extremist Jihadist groups.<br />
<br />
French journalist <strong>Jeremy Andre:</strong><br />
<br />
“The attackers of Afrin are ultra-violent radical groups, who already commit acts of ethnic cleansing (destruction of Yazidi temples, forced displacements), and want to destroy all the political and social progress in Rojava, like gender equality…”<br />
<br />
This has been corroborated in a number of videos released on social media. For example in one video a militia fighter flanked by others describes the Kurds as “infidels” and issues a stark warning, saying “by Allah, if you repent and come back to Allah, then know that you are our brothers. But if you refuse, then we see that your heads are ripe, and that it’s time for us to pluck them.”<br />
<br />
“The video is 100 per cent authentic,” said Rami Abdulrahman, who heads the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights which released it, in an interview with The Independent. He adds that he is very concerned about the fate of some Yazidi villages in Afrin captured by the advancing Turkish forces, saying he has seen videos taken by the militiamen themselves in one of which “an elderly Yazidi man is questioned by them, asking him how many times he prays a day.”<br />
<br />
<strong>Patrick Cockburn:</strong> “The Turkish offensive against the Kurds in Afrin will not end when it falls, but its elimination may set the stage for further Turkish attacks against Kurdish-held territory further east…But, if the fall of Afrin is accompanied by mass killings and ethnic cleansing, then the war in northern Syria is about to get a whole lot worse.”<br />
<br />
<strong>YPG Afrin Command statement </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>YPG Afrin Command </strong>released its statement on March 14th “regarding the invading Turkish state’s settlement of refugees in camps in the plundered villages of Afrin in an attempt to change the demography of the region.”<br />
<br />
Other than the concerns expressed, the statement declares that those following in the wake of the Turkish military invasion with the hope of settling on the captured territory will become legitimate targets (“a target to the legitimate aims of our fighters“) in a war that appears now to be endless and ongoing.<br />
<br />
“At a time when our people are subjected to fascist practices by the invading Turkish state and affiliated gangs in Afrin, international states lapse into a doubtful silence. These fascist practices have targeted the history and future, and the free and honorable life of the region as a war has been started through a military intervention in violation of international law.<br />
<br />
Relying on military technology in its attacks, the Turkish state has engaged in the fascistic practices of massacring and displacing our people in the areas they have invaded recently. Still, our people have manifested their devotion to their land and history. Our people remain standing with the same determination against those who plunder the people’s properties and those who vow in videos circulated on social media that those refusing the Turkish state’s sovereignty will be beheaded.<br />
<br />
One of the most attention-grabbing practices is the settlement of families of the gangs that act with the invading Turkish state and the Turkmens brought in from Atme, Azaz, Turkey and Iraq in the regions of Shiye and Jindires. This is a clear manifestation of the practice of demography change in the region that fascist Erdo&#287;an had spoken of before, during the initial invasion attacks.<br />
<br />
All these practices show that the Turkish state’s goal has always been to subject our people to genocide and eradicate them from existence. In addition, with these practices, the Turkish state aims to create denominational and national issues by setting the peoples of Syria against one another in order to create a new Turkey in line with its interests. These practices will also cause the war in Syria to extend over a longer time and result in the migration of Syrian people.<br />
<br />
We in the YPG state clearly that the regions where the invading Turkish state is changing the demographic structure have been a battle field since the first day and military activities have been taking in these regions up until now. We warn those who are an instrument to or have a part in the Turkish state’s scheme not to approach these regions. In contrary case, they will be a target to the legitimate aims of our fighters. We also call on those that have become an instrument in this dirty scheme not to be deceived by the Turkish state’s schemes. We also warn them not to put support behind the Turkish state’s hostile practices against the local people because any settlement in the regions that have been invaded without a consideration of the law or legitimacy will be realized by use of force, which will constitute a violation of international laws and it is a most incontestable right for our fighters to target these regions.”<br />
<br />
<strong>Other Voices appeal to UN, EU, and UN Security Council</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Nadia Murad</strong>, since September 2016 the first Goodwill Ambassador for the Dignity of Survivors of Human Trafficking of the United Nations (UNODC) as well as being an ISIS survivor, a Yazidi human rights activist from Iraq and a Nobel Peace Prize nominee. She was kidnapped and held by the Islamic State in August 2014.<br />
<br />
“200 civilians have been killed, including 3 Yazidi children. Shrines and religious sites have been destroyed or forcibly converted into mosques. People’s homes are being looted and minorities are being shamed by extremist militias…”<br />
<br />
“Many of these actions are war crimes and should be documented. This horror is reminiscent of the initial actions of ISIS in Iraq. Medical and healthcare services are urgently needed. This situation foreshadows “ethnic cleansing” and genocide…”<br />
<br />
On Wednesday 14th March, the HDP, Turkey’s pro-Kurdish <strong>Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP)</strong> also warned of an unfolding humanitarian crisis:<br />
<br />
“We believe the UN must take a stance before great human tragedies, like those in Srebrenica in the past, occur,” HDP’s Spokesperson Ayhan Bilgen told a press conference in Ankara.<br />
<br />
“The HDP fears the Turkish state may engage in a campaign of ethnic cleansing against the Kurdish population that also harbors the religious Yezidi (Ezidi) minority by driving them out of Afrin and resettling Sunni Arabs, Turkmen, and foreign fighters brought as far away as China’s Xinjiang region.”<br />
<br />
In a letter to UN’s Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, recently published on Global Rights HDP Deputy Faysal Sariyildiz said:<br />
<br />
“The worrying statement by Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, ‘We will place 350,000 Syrians into Afrin,’ is absolutely an indication of [a] planned ethnic cleansing… President Recep Tayyip Erdogan himself has numerous times claimed that Afrin of northwestern Syria belonged to Arabs and his army’s operation was aimed at “giving it back to its rightful owners.”<br />
<br />
<strong>Ilham Ehmed </strong>a Syrian Kurdish Politician:<br />
<br />
“The Turkish state is resettling families of gangs [in Afrin villages]. The policy of changing demographics has begun,” she tweeted.<br />
<br />
<strong>CONCLUSION</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>David Romano,</strong> professor of Middle East Politics:<br />
<br />
“The rhetoric and policies regularly coming out of Ankara, from Erdogan’s party and his government coalition partner, is actually full of anti-Kurdish animus, from banning the word “Kurdistan” and closing down all independent Kurdish media (including even a Kurdish children’s television station) to claiming that Afrin does not have a Kurdish majority. President Erdogan even went so far as to claim that the Kurds in Afrin are imposters and that Turkey will “return Afrin to its rightful owners.<br />
<br />
Last time this columnist checked, threats of ethnic cleansing are usually indicative of a problem with the threatened ethnic group.<br />
<br />
Perhaps officials in Ankara think they can say anything they want without being contradicted. That is, after all, the present state of “democracy” in Turkey today. International media, however, should know better than to accept these Turkish government propaganda lines without objection.”<br />
<br />
<strong>Ramazan Mendanlioglu</strong>, (for ANF, on 12 March)<br />
<br />
“The aim of the AKP’s foreign policy is to annihilate the entire north of Syria, i.e. the local self-government and carry out ethnic cleansing in order to subsequently establish Turkey-compliant Arab Islamists there in order to both destroy the self-determination of the Kurdish people, and secure Ottoman motivated influence in Syria. So here we are dealing with the racist-colonialist policy of Turkey, which also ignores all international agreements, laws and standards. It is openly pursuing the goal of ethnic cleansing, of at least cultural genocide – and the international community supports them! ”<br />
<br />
Mention of the United Nations and the July 1995 massacre in Srebrenica should be enough to wake those currently sleeping from their shameful silence and begin to take the action necessary to protect the inhabitants of the Afrin region. Problem has been up to now that by the time they woke up in Srebrenica – more than 8000, mostly male, Bosnians had been butchered.<br />
<br />
So – despite what <strong>Gokcan Aydogan </strong>wrote recently:<br />
<br />
“The problem here is not what Erdogan thinks or does. In history, there have always been dictators like Erdogan. The problem is the inability to condemn what he does or stop him. The dull and ineffective international rules, dirty arms deals, the very immoral refugee deal, the secret political agendas of the EU, the US and Russia strengthen Erdogan’s hand in his assault against the very same people who sacrificed their lives fighting against the “common evil” ISIS.”<br />
<br />
…and urgently: better wake up soon, Mr Guterres.<BR>
fight4afrin communique I - 14.03.18: Breaking the silence - Organize the resistancehttp://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065492018-03-15T18:17:11+00:00fight4afrinfigth4afrin@riseup.netSince the beginning of the fascist war in Afrin, anti fascists carried the war back to the places where it is approved, concealed, supported and made possible. Until now, in more than 70 actions in 9 different countries, the agitators and intellectual arsonists of this war, aswell as the ones who profit from it, were called to account. Different revolutionary groups and structures are accomplishing their historical responsibilities, and have joined our call and actions. We send them our fiercest greetings.communique I - 14.03.18:<br />
Breaking the silence - Organize the resistance<br />
<br />
"It is not a matter of wishing success to the victim of aggression, but<br />
of sharing his fate; and accompany him/her until death or victory."Che<br />
Guevara<br />
<br />
54 days of resistance in Afrin. 54 days where the self-defense forces of<br />
YPG / YPJ inflicted heavy blows to the fascist hordes. The AKP / MHP<br />
government of Turkey, and its barbaric ground forces from ISIS and<br />
Al-Nusra, are only advancing through massacres and the use of advanced<br />
military technology. For almost two months, NATO's second largest army,<br />
together with islamist mercenaries and with the approval of Russia, have<br />
been murdering, raping, looting and destroying Afrin.<br />
<br />
We are against the war and against the Turkish fascism supported by the<br />
international community. Millions of people worldwide are protesting<br />
against this injustice, but the responsibles of the massacre are not<br />
listening. While the bombs and rifles in Afrin do not rest, and the<br />
stranglehold of fascism gets tighter around the city, the nights in the<br />
heart of the beast are lit with flames of solidarity.<br />
<br />
People are carrying this war back to the places where it is approved,<br />
concealed, supported and made possible. Until now, in more than 70<br />
actions in 9 different countries, the agitators and intellectual<br />
arsonists of this war, aswell as the ones who profit from it, were<br />
called to account. Different revolutionary groups and structures are<br />
accomplishing their historical responsibilities, and have joined our<br />
call and actions. We send them our fiercest greetings.<br />
<br />
Answering the first call of fight4afrin, at least 22 acts of resistance<br />
[link] have been carried out against fascist institutions and their<br />
supporters. Government parties, centers of fascist propaganda, arms<br />
companies and their financial partners, police, army and other NATO<br />
structures were among our targets. Fire against MIT agents in France,<br />
against fascist propaganda institutions of the DITIB and against NATO<br />
army vehicles in Germany, against the Turkish consulate in Greece,<br />
against the arms company Leonardo-Finmeccanica in Italy. These and many<br />
other actions, such as attacks against banks and against the capital<br />
that made this war possible, are some examples of what we are able to do.<br />
<br />
These actions were responses to the cruel war of extermination against<br />
the people and revolution in Rojava. Those who claim this action have<br />
been done by Kurds alone are wrong. The attempt made by the<br />
nation-states and the media conglomerates to hold the Kurdish diaspora<br />
responsible for the past and future actions, is an attempt to reduce a<br />
political conflict to an ethnic conflict, an attempt to criminalize<br />
Kurdish people once again and look for the enemy outside. When we claim<br />
to be revolutionary cells in the heart of the beast, we are no lying.<br />
<br />
The revolution in Rojava is developing an alternative to capitalism,<br />
patriarchy and racism. It is an expression of the society emancipation<br />
from rule and state. This revolution is not just a revolution of the<br />
Kurds, it is a revolution of all people who fight for freedom and<br />
justice in this world. And that's why we decided not only to protest<br />
against this war, but to end it. Russia and NATO, the US and the<br />
European states, are responsible for this war. They have the influence<br />
to bring it to an end, and if this does not happen we will continue our<br />
actions.<br />
<br />
As soon as the first Turkish flag waves over Afrin, we will move on to a<br />
new phase of resistance. If the fascist forces of the AKP / MHP / ISIS /<br />
Al Nusra set foot in the city of Afrin, we will take our global actions<br />
qualitatively and quantitatively to a new level. We make a call in<br />
solidarity with the people of Afrin, to continue and intensify the<br />
actions in all their diversity and radicality, and to make all necessary<br />
preparations in the event of the invasion of the city.<br />
<br />
For the rulers of this world: there is only one way to stop us. Stop the<br />
attacks on Rojava, stop the war in Afrin.<br />
<br />
fight4afrin<br />
<br />
March 14, 2018<BR>
The Cowboys [1]http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065482018-03-14T11:04:20+00:00PTA Play for the Stage<BR>
The Cowboys at The Waterside Theatre, Derry/Londonderry Review by Bernadette Ó Huiginn<br />
. “The Cowboys”, written and directed by Peter Trant, is a dramatic and highly entertaining play set in a fictional town somewhere along the border. It tells a complex, darkly humorous tale of love, betrayal and revenge. After many years, away, the protagonist, Bobby Courtney, returns to his hometown for his father’s funeral. Old animosities between him and his nemesis, Johnny Murtagh, the Meat Factory Manager, bubble ominously to the surface. Two Meat Factory Workers, Sonny and Phil, observe it all. At first this duo, with their laugh-out-loud humour, appear to be outside the action, almost like a Greek chorus, but we soon realize that they are, in fact, central to events as they unfold. Behind their banter, oblique clues hint at horrors past and to come. A sense of menace permeates the action right from the beginning and tension builds inexorably as the plot moves to its shocking climax.<br />
As director, Trant has a sure mastery of the elements that go into creating a strong piece of theatre and he works them skilfully in this production. He shows a great understanding of stagecraft, never letting the pace falter and using the minimalist sets and lighting to very good advantage. As writer, Trant has created a cast of vividly drawn characters. Those in the pivotal roles of Bobby and Johnny, and especially, Silk Cut Sonny and Big Phil were excellent. These last two are superb creations and, as inhabited by Pat Deery as Sonny and Dennis O’Hagan as Phil, they were totally convincing. Pat Deery’s gripping performance was a stand-out. The play is greatly enlivened by dialogue that manages a colourful verve without losing plausibility. It is rich in the pungent local idioms of the northern borderlands.<br />
<BR>
The Cowboys [2]http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065472018-03-14T10:38:47+00:00PTA Play for the Stage<BR>
The Patrician Hall Carrickmore, Co. Tyrone Thursday March 22nd.Review by Bernadette Ó Huiginn<br />
. “The Cowboys”, written and directed by Peter Trant, is a dramatic and highly entertaining play set in a fictional town somewhere along the border. It tells a complex, darkly humorous tale of love, betrayal and revenge. After many years, away, the protagonist, Bobby Courtney, returns to his hometown for his father’s funeral. Old animosities between him and his nemesis, Johnny Murtagh, the Meat Factory Manager, bubble ominously to the surface. Two Meat Factory Workers, Sonny and Phil, observe it all. At first this duo, with their laugh-out-loud humour, appear to be outside the action, almost like a Greek chorus, but we soon realize that they are, in fact, central to events as they unfold. Behind their banter, oblique clues hint at horrors past and to come. A sense of menace permeates the action right from the beginning and tension builds inexorably as the plot moves to its shocking climax.<br />
As director, Trant has a sure mastery of the elements that go into creating a strong piece of theatre and he works them skilfully in this production. He shows a great understanding of stagecraft, never letting the pace falter and using the minimalist sets and lighting to very good advantage. As writer, Trant has created a cast of vividly drawn characters. Those in the pivotal roles of Bobby and Johnny, and especially, Silk Cut Sonny and Big Phil were excellent. These last two are superb creations and, as inhabited by Pat Deery as Sonny and Dennis O’Hagan as Phil, they were totally convincing. Pat Deery’s gripping performance was a stand-out. The play is greatly enlivened by dialogue that manages a colourful verve without losing plausibility. It is rich in the pungent local idioms of the northern borderlands.<br />
<BR>
The Cowboys [3]http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065462018-03-14T10:22:00+00:00P.T.A Play for the Stage - St. Patrick's Hall, Shercock, Co. Cavan<BR>
The Cowboys by Peter Trant - St. Patrick's Hall, Shercock, Co. Cavan Tuesday March 20th @ 8 pm. Review by Bernadette Ó Huiginn<br />
. “The Cowboys”, written and directed by Peter Trant, is a dramatic and highly entertaining play set in a fictional town somewhere along the border. It tells a complex, darkly humorous tale of love, betrayal and revenge. After many years, away, the protagonist, Bobby Courtney, returns to his hometown for his father’s funeral. Old animosities between him and his nemesis, Johnny Murtagh, the Meat Factory Manager, bubble ominously to the surface. Two Meat Factory Workers, Sonny and Phil, observe it all. At first this duo, with their laugh-out-loud humour, appear to be outside the action, almost like a Greek chorus, but we soon realize that they are, in fact, central to events as they unfold. Behind their banter, oblique clues hint at horrors past and to come. A sense of menace permeates the action right from the beginning and tension builds inexorably as the plot moves to its shocking climax.<br />
As director, Trant has a sure mastery of the elements that go into creating a strong piece of theatre and he works them skilfully in this production. He shows a great understanding of stagecraft, never letting the pace falter and using the minimalist sets and lighting to very good advantage. As writer, Trant has created a cast of vividly drawn characters. Those in the pivotal roles of Bobby and Johnny, and especially, Silk Cut Sonny and Big Phil were excellent. These last two are superb creations and, as inhabited by Pat Deery as Sonny and Dennis O’Hagan as Phil, they were totally convincing. Pat Deery’s gripping performance was a stand-out. The play is greatly enlivened by dialogue that manages a colourful verve without losing plausibility. It is rich in the pungent local idioms of the northern borderlands.<br />
<BR>
National Homeless and Housing Coalition Protest Sat 7th Apr 2018http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065442018-03-09T14:46:53+00:00nhAs the government is set to spend BILLIONS on signing us up to PESCO the Irish Ant-War Movement has decided to support the Housing Is A Human Right Day of Action on <b>Sat 7th April 2018</b>. If we can spend money on weapons we can provide affordable housing.Housing is a Human Right - Protest<br />
<br />
Organised by the National Homeless and Housing Coalition<br />
<br />
<strong>Assemble 1pm at the Garden of Remembrance, Parnell Square, Dublin.</strong><br />
<br />
Arise – Protest – Organise<br />
<br />
#April7th #LetsOrganise<br />
<br />
Twitter: @_HousingCrisis<br />
Facebook: NationalHomelessandHousingCoalition<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Our demands are:</u></strong><br />
<br />
1. The housing and homelessness situation should be declared an<br />
emergency.<br />
<br />
2. An end to economic evictions: No loss of principal residency due to economic distress.<br />
<br />
3. Regulation of the private rented sector. Security of tenure and rent certainty. Greater enforcement and inspection. Limit rent rises to a link such as the consumer price index. Public led provision of student accommodation. A charter of housing rights for all renters in the private sector (including students).<br />
<br />
4. A local authority led emergency response to the housing crisis<br />
addressing the issue of vacant units, including the use of compulsory purchase orders and the refurbishment of existing units to meet public housing targets.<br />
<br />
5. Public policy should aim to increase the output of public housing to an annual rate of 10,000 units per year by late 2018/early 2019 at an estimated cost of €1.8 billion per annum. At least three quarters of these must be provided by local authorities.<br />
<br />
6. Additional capital expenditure of €1,150 million in 2018 on top of 2017’s planned €655 million provided from the fiscal space available for 2018 and additional tax measures such as the fast-tracking of the vacant site levy and by borrowing. Greater flexibility as regards the application of EU fiscal rules for investment in public housing.<br />
<br />
7. An integrated strategy of well-planned mixed income housing provided by the local authorities on publicly owned land.<br />
<br />
8. Redirect the billions spent on subsidising private landlords to the provision of public housing while continuing and improving necessary rent assistance.<br />
<br />
9. The development of a cost rental model as a matter of urgency. Adoption and adaption of NERI’s March 2017 proposals for a European cost rental model.<br />
<br />
10. Land zoned for housing that is owned by local authorities should be used primarily to provide public housing by local authorities, instead of being made available to private developers.<br />
<br />
11. Decent pay and working conditions in the construction sector aiming for the use of unionised and direct labour.<br />
<br />
12. Full expenditure of improved funding for Traveller accommodation.<br />
<br />
13. Socially inclusive and energy efficient standards for public housing.<br />
<br />
14.An end now to emergency provision for families in bed and breakfast accommodation and the provision for them of suitable public housing. Improved and expanded hostel accommodation for homeless people on the street.<br />
<br />
15. Steps taken to inscribe the Right to Housing in the constitution.<br />
<br />
<BR>
Civil liberties, the cashless society sets off alarm bellshttp://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065432018-03-08T11:12:58+00:00Emma RobinsonDespite political institutions keeping the subject on the low, whistleblowers and civil rights activists are raising flags regarding what they regard as a threat to fundamental freedom for States. A trend leading to the disappearance of physical currency, they fear, will inconspicuously and irreversibly invite totalitarianism into our lives.As the virtual layer of the world continuously expands, more and more things from our daily lives lose their material feel, to enter the computerized and intangible world. Fewer and fewer people know the feel of mail paper on fingertips, or pilots no longer use the expression “flying by the seat of their pants”, as computers have been entasked with more and more of our operations. Amongst the things disappearing from our lives, are coins and paper. Adam Forrest writes (1) for the Guardian: “As more shops and transport networks adapt to contactless card and touch-and-go mobile technology, many major cities around the world are in the process of relegating cash to second-class status. Some London shops and cafes are now, like the capital’s buses, simply refusing to handle notes or coins.” The website LetsTalkPayments.com confirms (2) with hard data: “UK’s popular mobile payment system Paym. has crossed 26 million pounds in transaction volume. Two thirds (66%) of the UK population is aware of mobile payments, with more than half (52%) of those with knowledge of mobile payments aware of Paym.” Would this new era replace hassle with danger?<br />
<br />
The right to privacy has been a rising concern for many citizens in the developed world, as they become gradually aware of the extent to which anyone and everyone can keep an eye on them. Large-scale government surveillance (3) was perhaps the primer to the subject, as citizens realized their every move and action was under discreet scrutiny. The rise of uncontrolled data originating from social networking sites (SNS) added a new layer of worrying complexity to the matter, as was revealed by an in-depth study (4) by CyberPsychology :”The booming popularity of SNSs has brought an additional dimension to the complexity of privacy risks. According to Zittrain (2008), early threats to people’s online information privacy came mostly from data stored in government or corporate databases, which he calls Privacy 1.0; yet, with the rise of SNSs, we have transitioned into an era of Privacy 2.0, where the data is generated and shared by individuals, and the “generativity” of SNSs breeds a new generation of privacy problems”. But how does this data jeopardize our liberty?<br />
<br />
Traceability is the key word in this cashless society we are slowly drifting towards, where financial information is linked to locations, people and things, through the aggregation of banking and SNS data. When virtual purchases are carried out by a citizen, they leave information within server logs, known as a “paper trail”, even though they are dematerialized. Nathan Heller, from the New Yorker, wrote (5):”With a pocket of cash, you could be anyone: a Russian spy, a birthday celebrant, an avvocato out for a night on the town. With a cashless trail, you were fated always to be what you had always been; you couldn’t flee far from your name, your purchases, even your network of friends. You were always, by your cards or cell phone, outed as yourself”, designating the constant accountability for non-cash-payments. Part of this information is transmitted to the citizen himself, in his bank statement. But banks also keep a record of these transactions. Who can then access these records, is anyone’s guess. Of course, State agencies are on the usual suspects’ list. This is one of the reasons why governments are keen to accelerate the demonetization of societies. In addition to representing a hefty expense for them, in the design, production and management of bills and coins, currency creates a lack of control for the legal and economic policies which they wouldn’t mind seeing gone. <br />
<br />
Now, to some extent, many citizens don’t object to having a government keep an eye on such matters, because they perceive immediate benefits and no immediate downsides. In a way, these citizens are right. With transaction data, banks can provide us with instant information, and companies can target their advertising towards things we would actually be liable to purchase, rather than random and annoying guesses. As for the government’s capacity to monitor an increasingly cashless society, it increases their capacity to prevent terrorism, and to fight crime, whilst leaving the honest citizen in relative peace. But civil rights activists are not concerned about today, they are alarmed about tomorrow. Elaine Ou, writing for Bloomberg, describes (6) the cashless perspective as falsely convenient and safe, and also “creepy” : “A cashless economy violates the basic laws under which currency has operated since before the Industrial Revolution. The justification for giving up a fundamental freedom is that it would clear the way for an experimental policy designed to place a tax on currency. Money may be a shared illusion, but cash abolitionists are in a hallucination all their own.” Their fear is based not on what governments do, but on what they can do, our could do with that information in a near future. With a comprehensive list of all a citizen’s purchases and belongings, a government is liable to use public force to pressure its citizens by stripping them of all of their belongings. <br />
<br />
It is in the nature of crises that they become visible when it is already too late to respond, or else they would never come to be. Civil rights activists are trying to bring the matter to public attention before populations have locked themselves into a situation where no longer have any escape. If modern societies continue to drift towards the cashless era, they will have failed to keep powers, between States and their peoples, on an even keel.<br />
<br />
(1) <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2017/jan/09/rise-cashless-city-contactless-payments-exclusion-cashfree-society" title="https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2017/jan/09/rise-cashless-city-contactless-payments-exclusion-cashfree-society">https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2017/jan/09/rise-cas...ciety</a><br />
(2) <a href="https://letstalkpayments.com/which-countries-are-close-to-a-cashless-world/" title="https://letstalkpayments.com/which-countries-are-close-to-a-cashless-world/">https://letstalkpayments.com/which-countries-are-close-...orld/</a><br />
(3) <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2001/may/29/qanda.janeperrone" title="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2001/may/29/qanda.janeperrone">https://www.theguardian.com/world/2001/may/29/qanda.jan...rrone</a><br />
(4) <a href="https://cyberpsychology.eu/article/view/6184/5914" title="https://cyberpsychology.eu/article/view/6184/5914">https://cyberpsychology.eu/article/view/6184/5914</a><br />
(5) <a href="http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/10/10/imagining-a-cashless-world" title="http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/10/10/imagining-a-cashless-world">http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/10/10/imagining-...world</a><br />
(6) <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2016-10-14/the-cashless-society-is-a-creepy-fantasy" title="https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2016-10-14/the-cashless-society-is-a-creepy-fantasy">https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2016-10-14/the-...ntasy</a><br />
<BR>
Do Germans really want to align themselves with 'evil'?http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065402018-03-05T11:15:08+00:00Anthony RavlichAngela Merkel captured by EU and UN.<BR>
Germany in the midst of a migrant crisis seems to be failing to defend its culture and way of life. Germany's leader, Angela Merkel, seems captured by the EU and UN. My book shows the latter created a new globally dominant ideology, Neoliberal Absolutism, which has determined western culture and global freedom for decline. I regard neoliberal absolutism as 'evil' because it seems extemely likely that people would not be able to think for themselves or even have a conscience of their own. Do Germans really want to align themselves with ‘evil’?<br />
<br />
Anthony Ravlich Human rights author, activist, outsider (26yrs)<br />
Chairperson<br />
Human Rights Council (New Zealand)<br />
10D/15 City Rd.,<br />
Auckland City,<br />
Ph: (0064) (09) 940.9658<br />
<br />
It seems obvious what a strong leader would do when a country’s culture and way of life is under threat and that is to defend it.<br />
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I am talking about the sexual assaults on women in Germany very largely by Muslim migrants.<br />
<br />
It would seem obvious to increase the police force and have a zero tolerance towards such crime. And, in my view, a tough approach would respected by the migrants.<br />
<br />
But it seems very clear that Angela Merkel is not a strong leader, in fact, she could be described as traitorous in failing to defend the culture.<br />
<br />
Angela Merkel certainly appears to be a puppet of the European Union and the United Nations and, in my view, is aligning herself with an ‘evil’ ideology.<br />
<br />
In my recent book I show that on 10 Dec 2008 the United Nations created a new globally dominant ideology which I call neoliberal absolutism. I regard the latter as ‘evil’ because in my view, based on about 20 years of experience of a form of totalitarianism, people would not be able to think for themselves or even have a conscience of their own.<br />
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The existence of neoliberal absolutism was never made public by the global mainstream media but my research is verifiable.<br />
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I discovered what the UN was doing more by accident than design.<br />
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My recent book follows on from my previous where I describe the discussions which led to the creation of neoliberal absolutism over a four year period from 2004 to 2008. The following book is my latest with much greater clarity regarding the consequences of neoliberal absolutism:<br />
<br />
The Ebook is free. My book, 'Ethical Human Rights: Freedom's Great Hope' (American Academic Press, 2017). Ebook link provided by my publishers: <a href="https://books.google.com/books" title="https://books.google.com/books">https://books.google.com/books</a>…<br />
<br />
Neoliberal absolutism resulted in a major rebalance of global ideological and economic power from the West to the Rest. My book shows neoliberal absolutism determines Western civilization and global freedom for decline.<br />
<br />
Also, it seems irrefutable that neoliberal absolutism was the real cause of the global financial crisis in 2008 which had its major impact on the European Union.<br />
<br />
The new globally dominant ideology promotes totalitarianism, repressive States and political Islam which has seen latter States rise at the UN to virtually control the UN’s human rights agenda.<br />
<br />
Neoliberal absolutism involves both sets of human rights in the Universal Declaration i.e. civil and political rights and economic, social and cultural rights. It gives the impression that humanity now has all the human rights in the Universal Declaration but the UN has a ‘hidden’ collectivist agenda and when coupled with the Universal Declaration created neoliberal absolutism, a draconian totalitarianism which seems well suited for a one world government.<br />
<br />
Although given what the UN has hidden from humanity it is very difficult to see how they could ever be trusted to preside over a one world government.<br />
<br />
The UN’s ‘hidden’ collectivist agenda involves major violations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights while the great majority of States in voting for it violated the UN Charter which requires that they uphold the Universal Declaration.<br />
<br />
Because of the UN’s gross human rights malpractice I recommend that the West boycotts the UN until it removes its ‘hidden’ collectivist agenda.<br />
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The major opposition to neoliberal absolutism came from America with some support from the American camp at the UN e.g. Britain, Canada, Australia and Japan. It certainly appears Muslim majority countries voted in support of neoliberal absolutism.<br />
<br />
Put simply, international human rights law is meant to reflect the Universal Declaration but it is evident that there are a number of human rights omissions (all clearly described in chapter one) related to creativity e.g. individual self-determination i.e. the seeking of truth, hopes and dreams, while growth based on creativity was replaced by growth based on exploitation under international law.<br />
<br />
In my view, the elimination of creativity cripples populations resulting in backward cultures but also, because of greater top-down control, makes it very hard for populations to hold their leaders to account. It seems obvious that the great majority of State leaderships are using the UN to protect their own interests out of the sight of their populations and voters.<br />
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The democratic will of the people would seem the best way to counter the ‘evil’ that has descended on Germany if Germans choose to protect their culture and way of life.<br />
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Often ideology promoted by the whole establishment takes precedence over the democratic will of the people but unlikely if the people are intelligent enough to see that what has descended upon them is ‘evil’ and vote another political party into power.<br />
<br />
Germany<BR>
Fusion Sundayshttp://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065382018-03-03T14:47:16+00:00Fusion Sundaysfusionsundays@gmail.comWorld Culture Market<BR>
Stalls from around the world Fusion Sundays -World Culture Market <br />
We will be back for another unique market experience at The Green Door Market on the 11th of March.<br />
Even though we haven't found a new home just yet we are delighted to be able to continue our celebration of world cultures in Ireland.<br />
Come on by if you would like to taste street food from around the globe, check out artisan market stalls or like to join a pop-up workshop!<br />
<br />
11th of March, 11am-5pm<br />
Newmarket, Dublin 8<BR>
Screening Of 'Dakan' (1997)http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065352018-02-25T20:15:17+00:00Dublin Film Qlub--The assured first gay feature film from Sub-Saharian Africa Dublin Film Qlub Season 8<br />
'NO VICTIM: LGBTQ Experience Around the World'<br />
<br />
continues with the screening of...<br />
<br />
Dakan (Dir. Mohamed Camara, 1997)<br />
<br />
Dublin Film Qlub<br />
<br />
Sat 10 March 2018<br />
<br />
The New Theatre<br />
<br />
Temple Bar, Dublin 2<br />
<br />
screening at 2:30 pm<br />
<br />
doors open at 2:00 pm<br />
<br />
Day membership: €8, at the door<br />
<br />
free tea, coffee, and biscuits<br />
<br />
..............................................................<br />
<br />
Guinea: Up to 7 years imprisonment.<br />
...............................................................<br />
<br />
Dakan (Dir. Mohamed Camara, 1997) <br />
French and Mandinkan with English Subtitles<br />
<br />
cast: Mamady Mory Camara, Koumba Diakite<br />
..................<br />
<br />
Tenderness, sacrifice, recklessness.<br />
....................<br />
<br />
Knowing that there are other gay people nearby, that it is possible to have friends and lovers, may not be enough to make the leap. In order to live openly as a gay man, you may have to leave everything behind. Even your faith. Unless the conversion ritual can cure you…<br />
<br />
--The assured first gay feature film from Sub-Saharian Africa <BR>
Protecting WIldlife in Ireland from Hedge Cutting and Gorse Burninghttp://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065342018-02-23T23:37:15+00:00Paul Lynch2018 edition of MDEG info leaflet2018 edition of MDEG info leaflet<BR>
The Rising - What If?http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065332018-02-22T11:35:41+00:00Pat WaineAfter The Rising<BR>
We all heard the comment , the rebels of 1916 would turn in their grave at the Republic we now have. Well this article asks a question. That question is where is there any proof to back that up . One big hole in that argument is that most of "the rebels " survived and lived long enough to shape the Republic we ended up withThe Rising -What If?<br />
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Listening to all the debates about the 1916 rising during the centenary year I was struck by the amount of reverence given to those who died during the rebellion. However I am more struck by comments like “what would the heroes of 1916 think about the current “Republic”. This view of the world was repeated recently by Joan Collins TD in a debate about the role of Constance Markievicz .The impression given by this and other statements is that those who fought in the Rising would not approve of the “Republic” we now have. The implication is that if those who died in Easter week had in fact survived that the Republic would have been different. No “Republican” has outlined any evidence for any such belief. In fact If you removed James Connolly from the equation there is little or no social vision for a new Ireland that would lead anyone to believe that the Republic would have been any different .<br />
<br />
I have heard the argument that the civil war was in fact a struggle for a different Ireland. This may or may not have been true but there is no real evidence that either side in the civil war had a major difference in social affairs in the new Ireland. The key for me is that approx 1600 fought in the Rising and approx 250 died in combat leaving 1,346 survivors’. Most of these went on to agree a sectarian constitution promoting a right wing catholic ethos dominated by the church and backward on almost all social issues. <br />
The question I pose is what makes people think that if the Rebels who gave their lives in 1916 had survived that they would have built a different/better Ireland than their one time comrades did? Some people have pointed at Liam Mellows as someone who would have had a similar outlook to James Connolly and would have been more progressive . However it was mellows who at one stage after the rising nominated or seconded the Nomination of Eamon Devalera . Dev was later to hand over the republic to the church with the resultant Conservative ethos embedded in the core of the new Constitution and indeed the new “independent “Ireland. Griffith and McNeill went as far as meeting with the Financial Times telling them<br />
“You can tell your city men that they have nothing to fear in the way of confiscation or unjust discrimination” We have no intention to harm investors in the least. Nationalists may point to the massive vote received by Sinn fein in the 1918 election as some shift in post rising Ireland. However 65% of those elected under the SF banner were from the a professional background , teachers and journalists. And there wasn’t a peep from SF about making “ equal rights and Equal opportunities” guaranteed to Irish citizens by the declaration of independence, were now been made subject to the interests of foreign and domestic financiers.<br />
The first Dail opened with a prayer and catholic conservatism ruled in it ever since With the full support of “republicans”<br />
For me I don’t see any evidence that with the exception of James Connolly that anyone of note mapped out a vision of a different Ireland. I stand to be corrected.<br />
<BR>
Researching Islamic Terrorism in Europe.http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065322018-02-15T00:55:16+00:00Anthony RavlichSaving Western civilization and global freedom.<BR>
Saving Western civilization and global freedom. I am seeking funding to research Islamic terrorism in Europe. My recent book describes aspects that require further research e.g. on 10 Dec 2008 the UN extended the domain of secularism to cover the whole Universal Declaration. I the chapter on Bangladesh I show how this certainly appear to lead to an enormous eruption of violence by Muslim extremists. This indicates that the UN's decision may have led to a increase in Islamic terrorism globally but requires further research.Researching Islamic Terrorism in Europe.<br />
<br />
Anthony Ravlich Human Rights Author, Activist (26yrs)<br />
Chairperson<br />
Human Rights Council (New Zealand)<br />
10D/15 City Rd.<br />
Auckland City.<br />
Ph: (0064) (09) 940.9658<br />
<br />
I am seeking to research Islamic terrorism in Europe but would require funding ($NZ20,000) to travel to Europe.<br />
<br />
I look forward to the opportunity of furthering my human rights development. <br />
My publisher, American Academic Press, has asked me to send the full manuscript for review when I have finished. However, I have yet to make the project my duty as it is depends on my getting the funding.<br />
<br />
The full amount or a contribution can be deposited, anonymously if preferred, in my Westpac Account: (ph (0064) (09) 940.9658 or email anthony_ravlich@yahoo.com for account number).<br />
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As well as finding a new human rights plan for the world, ethical human rights, I began seeking the truth in 1984 when New Zealand adopted neoliberalism and I strongly believe I found what I was looking for (see my book below).<br />
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In my book I use the Universal Declaration, which the UN and States often claim as their authority, to hold the UN and countries to account and found that States were crippling their populations by eliminating creativity which requires a domain of freedom. As a consequence it is far less likely leadership would be held to account.<br />
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My book also describes the creation of a new globally dominant ideology, neoliberal absolutism (see below), which resulted in a major rebalance of global ideological and economic power from the West to the Rest. I consider global freedom, including the West, has been determined for decline.<br />
<br />
In my view, neoliberal absolutism was the real cause of the global financial crisis 2008 which had its major impact on the Europe Union.<br />
<br />
My Ebook can be read for free. My book, 'Ethical Human Rights: Freedom's Great Hope' (American Academic Press, 2017). Ebook link provided by my publishers: <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=Z3nYDQAAQBAJ&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;source=gbs_ge_summarjy_r&amp;cad=0#v=onepage&amp;q&amp;f=false" title="https://books.google.com/books?id=Z3nYDQAAQBAJ&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;source=gbs_ge_summarjy_r&amp;cad=0#v=onepage&amp;q&amp;f=false">https://books.google.com/books?id=Z3nYDQAAQBAJ&printsec...false</a><br />
<br />
The above book follows on from my previous book, ‘Freedom from our social prisons: the rise of economic, social and cultural rights’ (Lexington Books, 2008) which first described the ethical approach to human rights as well as the discussions at the UN on the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and cultural Rights from 2004 t0 2008 which, in my view, led to the creation of a new globally dominant ideology. I call the latter neoliberal absolutism. It certainly appears to sanction a one world government but I consider it ‘evil’ because, in my view, people will not be able to think for themselves or even have a conscience of their own.<br />
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Put simply, ethical human rights requires that all should have, at least, all the core minimums of the human rights in the Universal Declaration.<br />
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It received remarkable support on the internet e.g. US State Department, Open Democracy Initiative of the White House, even the United Nations and many others such as Save the Children (US). However, the mainstream media have refused to report it so the democratic majority have not been informed. It certainly seems that attachment to ideology prevents these authorities from giving ethical human rights a higher profile while there is no assurance that the fake mainstream media would report it.<br />
<br />
Where I differ from the global establishment is that unlike the latter I am not controlled by ideology but rather my belief in ethical human rights is firmly based on universal human rights truth as in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As a consequence I consider I am much more likely to arrive at the truth rather than being subject to ideology which favours the interests of the status quo.<br />
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Also, I have differed from the global establishment because in 1991 I adopted a duty to inform people of important human rights truths and continue to do so. Whereas members of the establishment have no such duty.<br />
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Furthermore George Orwell (1946) in his article, ‘The Prevention of Literature’ stated that ‘a bought mind is a spoiled mind’. Again, where I differed from the establishment is that all my work has been done in poverty but researching Islamic terrorism requires funding so I can travel to Europe.<br />
<br />
There are aspects related to Islamic terrorism described in my latest book which I would like to further explore in Europe where I would travel to areas known as breeding grounds for terrorists, interview Imams (Islamic spiritual leaders) as well as visiting relevant authorities:<br />
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Secularism<br />
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Based on my research findings in my recent book I wish to test the hypothesis that there has been an increase in global Islamic terrorism because of the decisions made at the United Nations behind closed doors on 10 Dec 2008.<br />
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For example, from my research secularism was extended to cover the whole Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In my chapter on Bangladesh I show how shortly afterwards the Awami League Government implemented a secular plan for the country which certainly appeared to result in an enormous eruption of violence by Muslim extremists who are anti-secular. Sporadic violence is on-going.<br />
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America and to some extent the American camp at the UN e.g. Canada, Britain, Australia and Japan, opposed extending the domain of secularism but it certainly appears the Muslim dominated countries supported it. However, the Muslim extremists would not know about this because the mainstream media did not inform people. Rather the Muslim extremists seem to blame the West.<br />
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It could well be that the UN decisions have increased Islamic terrorism globally and this needs to be researched although I will be focusing on the European Union.<br />
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The global establishment will neither confirm or deny my research findings which are all verifiable by any reasonably intelligent person. I think I have been blacklisted and almost surely I am before my time.<br />
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United Nations<br />
<br />
Furthermore, my book in the chapter on the United Nations reveals the existence of a UN ‘hidden’ collectivist agenda which promotes totalitarianism, repressive States and political Islam.<br />
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The UN’s ‘hidden’ collectivist agenda exists because a number of human rights have been omitted from international human rights law which is meant to reflect the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.<br />
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The relevant human rights concerning creativity which were omitted are described in detail in chapter one of my book e.g. the global cultural cleansing of individual self-determination i.e. the seeking of truth, hopes and dreams, and replacing growth based on creativity with growth based on exploitation.<br />
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The omissions constitute major violation of the Universal declaration while States have violated the UN Charter which requires them to uphold the Universal Declaration. In my book I recommend that the West boycotts the UN until its ‘hidden’ collectivist agenda is removed.<br />
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The ‘hidden’ collectivist agenda led to the creation of a new globally dominant ideology, which I call neoliberal absolutism, a totalitarianism far more extreme than neoliberalism, which I regard as ‘evil’ because, in my view, people would not be able to think for themselves or even have a conscience of their own.<br />
<br />
Both ideologies achieve their control by, in varying degrees, crippling their populations of creativity such that it would be almost impossible to hold the leadership to account.<br />
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America and the American camp opposed neoliberal absolutism while Muslim dominated countries certainly appeared to support it.<br />
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Muslims concerned about the backwardness of their countries need to be made aware of the decisions of their leadership.<br />
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Left so-called liberals<br />
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It is the left so-called liberals who drive the UN’s ‘hidden’ collectivist agenda domestically and so promote the Islamization of the West. This needs to be made public but very hard to do so when the left so-called liberals control the mainstream media.<br />
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However, in addition to a book, you tube videos are a possibility.<br />
<br />
While the UN’s ‘hidden’ collectivist agenda is the decision of the considerably majority of States in the UN General Assembly it driven by left so-called liberals who dominate the UN and EU bureaucracy as well as being the dominant elite domestically.<br />
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As described in my book, these left so-called liberals are a social class who think collectively and have a totalitarian mind-set and invariably seek virtual total control over the population. I consider the left so-called liberals are like minded with totalitarian and repressive States and cultures such as the Muslim dominated countries.<br />
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They could be described as a closed group monopoly, seemingly incapable of self-reflection, and who project their own failings onto their opposition e.g. fascist, indoctrinated.<br />
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The left so-called liberals are very different from the real liberals who existed prior to the onset on neoliberalism in the late 1970s. For example, while real liberals believe in individual freedom of thought, conscience and expression the left so-called liberals believe in collective thought, conscience and expression (the fake mainstream media provides their collective voice).<br />
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In my view, domestically the States non-discrimination laws should also prohibit discrimination on the grounds of social class which should remove the left so-called liberals from their dominant position.<br />
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Peaceful Jihad<br />
<br />
My chapter on Bangladesh shows how a violent jihad can be replaced by a peaceful jihad by providing a greater voice for religious groups in the public domain. Also, in my view, the poor should have a voice of their own in the mainstream media so they can influence the democratic majority.<br />
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The ethical human rights I promote is described in great detail in both my books. It is secular but based on universal human rights truth as in the Universal Declaration whereas secularism as presently practiced in the West is based on ideology.<br />
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Religious political parties, including Islamic parties, by adopting ethical human rights as their ethical base could use the democratic process to gain a greater voice in the public domain i.e. exercise a peaceful jihad.<br />
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Ethical human rights is religion friendly because universal human rights truth, for all, can be regarded as reflective of God’s absolute universal truth whereas ideology, largely for elites, cannot. This view is supported by the fact that universal human rights truth virtually equates with the Golden Rule (i.e. ‘do unto others as you would have them do unto you’) which is espoused by the major religions including Islam.<br />
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Also, in my personal experience, I have found that not compromising my universal beliefs keeps me in contact with the divine or eternal not common in a world where there are many gods to choose from.<br />
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Education in ethical human rights would enable Muslims to better promote their religion in the public domain, enable them to assimilate better into a human rights culture, and also enable them to challenge their own leadership. <BR>
The torrefied pellet plant will not be built on the Limousin mountain!http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065312018-02-14T19:52:48+00:00Friends of the Limousin forestThis is an invitation from the Limousine Mountain to all potential accomplices who oppose the industrial offensive currently taking place under the veil of an ‘ecological transition’.To our dear Friends in struggle in Khimky, in Bure, in Iceland, in Notre Dame des Landes, in Bia&#322;owie&#380;a, in Durham, in the the Cevennes Mountains, in the Mi'kmaq Territory, i amazonia, the woods of Charnie, in Cambo, in Salau, in the Susa valley, in Dompierre, in Ro&#351;ia Montan&#259;, in Standing Rock, in Gueret, in Atenco, on the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, in Chalkidiki, in Saint Victor, at the Lake Baikal, in Wallmapu (Mapuche-Territory), in Guayana, in Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche, in Pyhäjoki, on the dunes of Trégor, in &#304;stanbul, in Landivisiau, at the Hambacher Forst, in the Woods of Chambaran, at the Makwa Camp (Ojibwe Territories), in Loc Envel, in the K'iche Territory, on the shores of Kafue, in the Wendland, in the Niger Delta, in the Gran Chaco, in Merléac, in Norra Kärr Vättern, in the gardens of Lentillères, in the Treburer Woods, in Jabiluka (Mirarr Territory) – and everywhere people counter the industrial madness…<br />
<br />
Hello<br />
<br />
We write to you from the mountains of Limousine, somewhere in central France. Our region is being threatened with the construction of a torrefied biomass plant. This large-scale industrial project is being planned in the small rural towns of Bugeat and Viam, in the Corrèze region, an area that is a natural refuge with valleys, moors and forests.<br />
<br />
The development plans are being lead by a venture capitalist*1 who stumbled upon a great opportunity to make a quick buck when he made friends with the president of the Corrèze city council*2, who is known for his ties with the agro-industrial lobbies. Despite numerous concerns and well-argued opposition to the plan, the public inquiry has announced its support for the project. This makes it clear that they intend to carry out their plans of development by force. Thus we have entered a new phase of our struggle and the time has come to call for your support. <br />
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The goal of this project is to introduce a new torrefaction method that was developed in the US. The product produced will be marketable as ‘renewable energy’ and it will be burned in French coal plants. In short, this is an obvious attempt at a ‘green washing’ campaign that seeks to save the same energy devouring system that has pushed us to the brink of collapse. The magnitude of the project and the astronomical quantities of raw plant material that it would transform into charcoal (including the roots of the felled trees) would quickly make a desert of our fragile mountain soils. <br />
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In recent decades, these soils have already suffered from the industrial exploitation of resinous wood plantations. Heavy machinery, systematic clear-cutting, rootstock removal, pesticides and heavy rains have all taken a huge toll on our environment. It is undeniable that this process of exploiting our natural resources is disastrous. The pellet plant would serve as a bonus for this suicidal logic.<br />
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The development of ‘biomass’ energy seeks to put the forest as a whole to work. This voracious beast is on the verge of attacking the plateau’s beautiful hardwood forests as well. These mixed forests regrew on the land in an unregulated manner after they were abandoned during the rural exodus. These lands are now being targeted by developers who want to control, calculate and profit from these wild regions.<br />
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For us, the struggle is about more than mere resource management or the preservation of our particular lifestyle. This is a fight to affirm a different way of relating to the world. We humans are but a small fraction of that world. Like many of you, we have decided to turn our back on our species'<br />
frenetic race towards its own destruction. This fatal destiny of mankind is not ours. We choose to live as earthlings amongst a diversity of earthlings, and to defend that which makes life possible. It’s on behalf of nature itself and its violent impulses to defend itself (which we have only seen a small portion of) that we have made the decision to hinder anyone seeking to add to the general pillage. <br />
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The various struggles that you all have lead all over the globe in recent years have been a great inspiration for us. Today we would like to contribute to a necessary effort of coordinating on at least a European scale. There is much to share and to learn about facing off against these projects. Even though each project seems different, they are all expressions of the same old extractivist logic. A logic that tries so conceal itself by hiding behind the moral alibi of an ‘ecological transition.’ Let’s share our analysis, our stories, techniques and strategies, many of which were successful.<br />
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We invite you to come and visit us, to lend a hand if the need arises, or to express your support in any way possible. Whether it’s today, tomorrow, or in the weeks and months to come, we hope you will fight alongside us during this decisive and time and help us bury this project once and for all.<br />
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A big thank you to all. We hope to see you soon<br />
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Friends of the Limousin forest <br />
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amisdelaforet[at]riseup.net<br />
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*1 M. Gaudriot CEO of the enterprises CARBON’ ENGINEER BUGEAT-VIAM and SOMIVAL<br />
*2 M. Coste, president of the Conseil Général de la Corrèze.<br />
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Man convicted of blooding dogs on live animals has big win at hare coursing finals!http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065302018-02-13T15:44:43+00:00Ban Hare Coursing in IrelandAnother layer of shame has been added to the so-called National Coursing Meeting, the All-Ireland final of the blood sport, held in Clonmel over the weekend. A greyhound called Dicks Bimbo won the “Grace & Matt Bruton Champion Bitch Stakes final.”This greyhound was trained by Owen McKenna of New Inn, County Tipperary. Mr. McKenna is not just any greyhound trainer. He has a conviction for blooding dogs on live animals, an offence that both the Irish Coursing Club and Bord na gCon (the Greyhound Board) claim they abhor and will never tolerate within the industry.<br />
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Yet a number of dogs trained by him, including the above named one, were accepted for entry in the “National Coursing Meeting.”<br />
Owen McKenna was filmed at a County Tipperary track in 1994 using live rabbits attached to strings to train greyhounds. <br />
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Journalist Donal McIntyre secretly filmed Mr. McKenna and others clearly blooding the dogs. He was working on a BBC documentary on the Irish greyhound industry. A court case ensued and Judge Michael Patwell sentenced Owen McKenna and a number of other defendants to prison terms. <br />
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Please see link (below) to footage of the blooding session (part of the documentary entitled “On the Line”) in which you will see Mr. McKenna calmly inflict pain and suffering on the captive rabbits.<br />
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The ICC should now be asked to explain its position…how can it possibly stand over Owen McKenna’s involvement in the National Coursing Meeting if, as it claims, it does not in any way tolerate blooding or the people who practice it. <br />
And Owen McKenna should be asked if he would like to express remorse for his despicable acts of cruelty as he has not, to our knowledge, ever done this.<br />
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The ICC might also have a look at this footage…to remind itself of who Mr. McKenna is…and of the fact that the organisation is supposed to be implacably opposed to this method of training greyhounds.<br />
Here is Mr. McKenna “at work”:<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q33yiORJfXs" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q33yiORJfXs">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q33yiORJfXs</a><br />
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Sick dogs, poorer attendance, convicted animal abusers and not much media coverage…Coursing a dying practise.http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065292018-02-12T17:05:35+00:00Bernie Wrightbigbrownrat@gmail.comHares snatched from the wild to amuse the cloth cap brigade.<BR>
Press Release. Re National Coursing Final 2018<br />
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Our group co-organised the large demonstration against Live Hare Coursing at the Powerstown Park Coursing Disgrace.<br />
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A quieter than usual and less well attended event. RTE did not even give much coverage, thankfully it’s a dying pastime which for us is the equivalent to child abuse.<br />
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Our biggest question was- why was a convicted man on charges of blooding gentle hares [to train his dogs} allowed participate?<br />
He was Ger Mc Kenna’s son Owen Mc Kenna who was filmed at a Tipperary track some years ago. Journalist Donal McIntyre secretly filmed McKenna and others clearly blooding the dogs, for a BBC documentary on the greyhound industry. A court case ensued and Judge Michael Patwell sentenced Owen McKenna and a number of other defendants to prison terms. <br />
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Please see link (below) to footage of the blooding session (part of the documentary entitled “On the Line”) in which you will see Mr. McKenna calmly inflict pain and suffering on the captive rabbits.<br />
The ICC should now be asked to explain its position…how can it possibly stand over McKenna’s involvement in the National Coursing Meeting if, as it claims, it does not blooding.<br />
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• Here is the footage of the animal abuse. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q33yiORJfXs" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q33yiORJfXs">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q33yiORJfXs</a><br />
• The day finished early for the punters with less courses due to dogs entered being pulled from the “National Coursing Meeting” due to outbreak of a highly contagious infection in kennels in four different counties. <br />
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• The animals have were found vomiting and suffering from diarrhoea. A vet confirmed it was an infection that could spread profusely. Scours {This is a test to check for parasites such as worms or Giardia. If a bacterial infection is suspected, a fecal culture and sensitivity are performed. In cases of certain viral diseases, such as parvovirus, other tests on the feces may aid in the diagnosis. ...).Some comments have appeared on internet greyhound chat forums like “Greyhound Nuts” but greyhound industry PR people are desperate to keep the whole thing quiet, lest panic spread on the eve of the big “showpiece” hare baiting session. An emergency meeting in the Minella Hotel was called where greyhound owners discussed the infection on Friday night.<br />
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• Clubs are on the alert as One man was arrested about 7 weeks ago attempting to steal 9 hares out of Blarney coursing field.<br />
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So a declining Industry still abusing our wildlife with Government Approval continues to hang on by its nails.<br />
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Bernie Wright<br />
Press Officer AOHS<br />
Phone 0872651720<br />
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Some greyhounds withdrawn from National Coursing Meeting owing to “high contagious infection”!http://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065282018-02-09T17:18:56+00:00Justice for Irish GreyhoundsAnother dog welfare scandal<BR>
The spotlight among animal lovers will on the plight of the hares for the next three days (Saturday February 10th, 11th, and 12th) in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, but spare a thought for the greyhounds. Several have already been withdrawn from the “National Coursing Meeting” due to outbreak of a highly contagious infection in kennels in four different counties. <br />
The animals have were found vomiting and suffering from diarrhoea. A vet confirmed it was an infection that could “spread like mad”. Some comments have appeared on internet greyhound chat forums like “Greyhound Nuts” but greyhound industry PR people are desperate to keep the whole thing quiet, lest panic spread on the eve of the big “showpiece” hare baiting session. <br />
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It’s bad enough that greyhounds are treated so badly in this “industry”, with dogs being abandoned every week (dead or alive), doping widespread, and blooding on live bait an everyday occurrence...now we have this attempt to cover up what could be a major blow to the industry.<br />
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Some greyhound owners will be discussing the infection in the Minella Hotel tonight, according to a prominent greyhound trainer who posted a message online.<br />
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A better approach is: Call off the whole 3 day cruelty fest in Clonmel. If they don’t care about the hares, they should at least look after the dogs they claim to cherish and love!<br />
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Dutch cycling documentary Irish premiere screens on Thursdayhttp://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065272018-02-07T22:11:44+00:00anonWaterford City is to host the first Irish screening of the Dutch cycling documentary, Why We Cycle, tomorrow evening.<br />
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The screening — which is free — is to take place at Greyfriars Municipal Art Gallery this Thursday at 7pm as part of the launch of the Waterford Cycling Campaign.Waterford City is to host the first Irish screening of the Dutch cycling documentary, Why We Cycle, tomorrow evening.<br />
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The screening — which is free — is to take place at Greyfriars Municipal Art Gallery this Thursday at 7pm as part of the launch of the Waterford Cycling Campaign.<BR>
From Facebook to Policebookhttp://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065262018-02-03T22:18:53+00:001 of indy<em>This is a repost from the World Socialists Website now regularly censored by google and the headline catches the essence of how things are panning out today.</em><br />
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On Wednesday, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg posted a notice outlining extraordinary plans by the social media company to monitor all the postings and messages of its users, censor independent journalism, and use artificial intelligence (AI) to report users to the police and intelligence agencies.On Wednesday, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg posted a notice outlining extraordinary plans by the social media company to monitor all the postings and messages of its users, censor independent journalism, and use artificial intelligence (AI) to report users to the police and intelligence agencies.<br />
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Zuckerberg began his post, released in conjunction with the company’s quarterly earnings report, by declaring that 2017 was a “hard year” for Facebook. “The world feels anxious and divided—and that played out on Facebook. We’ve seen abuse on our platform, including interference from nation states, the spread of news that is false, sensational and polarizing, and debate about the utility of social media.” Facebook, he writes, has the responsibility to “amplify the good and prevent harm. That is my personal challenge for 2018.”<br />
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In Facebook’s “newspeak,” this means that the company will act aggressively this year to suppress the spread of information online and censor content, under the guise of combatting “fake news” and “Russian meddling.”<br />
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The truly ominous implications of this project are outlined in Zuckerberg’s post. Among Facebook’s initiatives, he writes, is “new technology to detect suicidal posts that has helped first responders reach more than 100 people who needed help quickly, and we’ve built AI systems to flag suspicious behavior around elections in real time and remove terrorist content.”<br />
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In other words, Facebook has introduced AI systems to collect, monitor and interpret all the information posted on its social media platform. As always, the introduction of such a sweeping system of mass surveillance is justified with seemingly praiseworthy motivations. After all, who could object to measures aimed at stopping suicides or terrorist attacks? The actual purpose of the new systems, however, is very different.<br />
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Zuckerberg points to the sweeping scope of the company’s artificial intelligence plans later: “Our goal with AI is to understand the meaning of all the content on Facebook.” Every single post, photo, video, message, comment, reaction and share will be fed into the company’s increasingly powerful computer systems to be analyzed for “harmful” content, and reported to the police and intelligence agencies as deemed necessary.<br />
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The real—and sinister—aim of Facebook’s actions is also made clear by the other initiatives that the company is taking. Most significantly, Zuckerberg stressed the company’s determination to make sure that “the information you see on Facebook comes from broadly trusted and high-quality sources, in order to counter misinformation and polarization.”<br />
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What are these “broadly trusted” sources? “For example, take the Wall Street Journal or New York Times,” wrote the multibillionaire CEO. “Even if you don’t read them or don’t agree with everything they write, most people have confidence that they’re high quality journalism. On the flip side, there are blogs that have intense followings but are not widely trusted beyond their core audience. We will show those publications somewhat less.”<br />
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In other words, corporate media sources will be promoted, while other publications, even those that “have intense followings,” will be demoted. As for being “shown somewhat less,” what Zuckerberg means is that they will be blocked from reaching a broader audience. More simply, they will be censored.<br />
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In addition to censoring news from alternative sources, Zuckerberg states at the beginning of his post that Facebook is working to “show fewer viral videos” because such content is not “good for people’s well-being and for society.”<br />
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The viral videos Zuckerberg is referring to include footage of police violence, social exposures like reporting on last year’s Grenfell Tower inferno that exposed social inequality in London, and documentation of the war crimes carried out by the US military. Any such content will be “demoted,” which Zuckerberg later notes “reduces an article’s traffic by 80 percent.”<br />
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Zuckerberg’s central pretense—that Facebook will promote sources that “people have confidence” in—is a fraud. In fact, according to a Gallup poll published last year, Americans’ trust in the mass media “to report the news fully, accurately and fairly” reached its lowest level in poling history, with only 32 percent of participants saying they have a “great deal” or “fair amount” of trust. At the same time, the use of social media to read news has been growing exponentially, reaching two-thirds of the US population according to a poll by the Pew Research Center.<br />
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The growth in the popularity of Facebook and other social media networks was in large measure due to the fact that they allowed their users access to information and viewpoints unavailable through mainstream media outlets. Now, Facebook has reversed course and declared that its intention is to promote the official narrative and block independent news sources that question it.<br />
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Facebook, Google, Twitter and other giant social media companies—working closely with intelligence agencies and governments—are seeking to leverage their role as mechanisms of communication to become instruments of censorship and repression. In the process, they are turning one of the most important and liberating technological advances of the 21st century, the growth and expansion of artificial intelligence, into a mechanism for police control and dictatorship.<br />
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The fight against Internet censorship is an urgent task facing workers all over the world. The World Socialist Web Site is leading the fight against the greatest threat to free speech since the Second World War. On January 23, it published an open letter calling for an international coalition of socialist, antiwar, left-wing and progressive websites, organizations and activists to fight Internet censorship.<br />
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The principles for this coalition are:<br />
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• Safeguarding the Internet as a platform for political organization and the free exchange of information, culture and diverse viewpoints, guided by the principle that access to the Internet is a right and must be free and equally available for all.<br />
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• Uncompromising insistence on the complete independence of the Internet from control by governments and private corporations.<br />
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• Unconditional defense of net neutrality and free, unfettered and equal access to the Internet.<br />
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• The banning and illegalization of government and corporate manipulation of search algorithms and procedures, including the use of human evaluators, that restrict and block public visibility of websites.<br />
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• Irreconcilable opposition to the use of the Internet and artificial intelligence technologies to carry out surveillance of web users.<br />
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• Demanding the end to the persecution of Julian Assange and Edward Snowden and the complete restoration of their personal freedom.<br />
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• Advocating the transformation of the corporate Internet monopolies into public utilities, under internationally coordinated democratic control, to provide the highest quality service, not private profit.<br />
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• The fight against Internet censorship and the defense of democratic rights cannot be conducted through appeals to capitalist governments and the parties and politicians who serve their interests, but only in uncompromising struggle against them. Moreover, this struggle is international in scope and totally opposed to every form and manifestation of national chauvinism, racism and imperialist militarism. Therefore, those who are truly committed to the defense of democratic rights must direct their efforts to the mobilization of the working class of all countries.<br />
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We urge all of those who agree with these principles to contact the World Socialist Web Site and take up the fight against Internet censorship.<BR>
Fusion Sundays Markethttp://www.indymedia.ie/article/1065252018-02-03T14:56:02+00:00Fusion Sundaysfusionsundays@gmail.comWorld Culture Market<BR>
Dublin's only World Culture MarketDublin's only World Culture Market is back on February 11th!<br />
Expierence a different kind of Market, with stalls from all over the world sharing one space to create a unique Culture Clash.<br />
We are so excited to be back after our January break and really looking forward the return of the Fusion!<br />
The Market will be held in The Green Door Market, Newmarket, Dublin 8, 11am-5pm.<br />
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For more info visit:<br />
<a href="https://www.fusionsundays.ie" title="https://www.fusionsundays.ie">https://www.fusionsundays.ie</a><BR>